Smartfin is a surfboard fin that allows scientists to collect data about the ocean with the help of surfers around the world. The project brings together engineers from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and students from the Computer Science and Engineering department at UC San Diego. Traditionally, it has been difficult to collect data near the shore because waves damage any instruments researchers place in the water. But, Smartfin turns that challenge into an advantage by enlisting the help of the surfing community. Series: "Computer Science Channel" [Science] [Show ID: 34350]